Zalman CNPS5700D-Cu Quiet CPU Cooler Review

Installation

This unit uses a different method of installation, as compared to other Socket 478 coolers that I've encountered. One side has fixed wedges, and the other side has wedges that are on a hinge. After cleaning your CPU of the old thermal compound and applying a fresh layer, fit the fixed side into the heatsink bracket, and press down on the other side, enough so that you can press the hinged clips into place, locking it. After getting it in place you can then adjust the direction of the fan duct if necessary.

After installation

I got something like this after the installation. Thanks to the air duct, I had alot of trouble getting a good photo, and after many shots, this angle turned out to be the best, with no glare.

Testing

Test System:

*UPDATE: Nov/22/2002, 00:40

Using SiSoftware Sandra, I used the Burn-In Wizard and ran the CPU Arithmetic and Multi-Media benchmarks for 15 minutes for each setting. For the idle temperatures I let the computer sit at the login screen for at least 30 minutes. I recorded the temperatures using Motherboard Monitor.

Interestingly, at the lowest setting, the unit is not as effective as my stock Intel cooler, and at the highest setting I only get a 4°C difference between the 5700D and the Intel HSF. While part of that reason could be because of the way that the air is brought through the CPU, the other reason could be due to powerful airflow already present in my system. Anyone who uses a Chenming case (Aspire, Antec, Enermax, etc.) knows of its very well structured airflow properties when all the fan slots are used.

But behind the numbers there is a little something that needs to be recognized. The 5700D is extremely quiet! At the lowest setting, my other fans basically drowned it out (and I use very quiet fans). At the highest setting, it is a little louder than the Intel HSF, but it cools it more effectively. At 37°C, there is alot of room for overclocking potential in terms of heat dissipation. Don't forget that a recommended upper limit for the Northwood CPU is around 55°C.

Conclusion

While the cooler does not perform that much better than the stock Intel HSF, it makes up for it for its quietness. However, at this price, it's difficult to justify purchasing one just to make your system more quiet. If you don't mind a little more noise, but can't stand the noise of a Thermaltake V7+ or V9, then you can consider purchasing this cooler. For a little more noise you can get yourself a bit more overclocking potential than with the stock Intel cooler. Don't forget that my case already has 2 intakes and 2 exhaust fans working in harmony. Those who don't have this type of airflow may find the 5700D more effective than the Intel HSF in this case, because you can now dedicate more air running through your CPU.

Pros

Cons